The Role of Oral Cancer Screenings in Dental Checkups

Why do dentists talk about something as serious as cancer in a dental context? Well, oral cancer is a deadly condition that affected 476,125 individuals worldwide in 2020 alone. Unfortunately, many remain unaware of the value of regular dental checkups, including an oral cancer screening. 

What Are Oral Cancer Screenings?

A dental practitioner will quickly and painlessly examine the mouth and surrounding tissues. As part of the screening, they will examine your mouth for abnormal growths, lesions, or tissue discoloration. They may also feel for lumps or other abnormalities in the mouth or neck.

Why Are Oral Cancer Screenings Important?

Cancer is probably one of the most dreadful health conditions that may impact your body. The stakes are just as high when it comes to oral cancer. This condition can adversely affect your speech, eating, and even breathing. It can be a heartbreaking condition.

If not treated quickly, oral cancer is a dangerous condition that threatens life. Regrettably, many individuals do not become aware of their mouth cancer until it is more severe. This bolsters the significance of routine oral cancer screenings. These can assist in identifying the illness in its earliest stages when it is most curable.

Who Should Get Oral Cancer Screenings?

Everyone should get regular oral cancer screenings regardless of age or risk factors. Oral cancer risk may vary from person to person. Those at the highest risk include individuals who smoke, drink a lot, or have a history of this illness in their families. Get routine oral cancer screenings if you fit into one of these categories.

How Are Oral Cancer Screenings Performed?

A routine dental examination can include a quick and painless oral cancer test. Dentists check the patient's throat and mouth for any indications of oral cancer. They might also feel around the neck and other places for lumps or other anomalies. To gain a better look at your mouth's tissues, they might employ tools like a light and mirror.

What Happens If Oral Cancer Is Detected?

If they suspect oral cancer, your dentist may refer you to a specialist for additional testing and treatment. Treatment may involve surgery, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy, depending on the disease's severity. The likelihood of successful treatment and survival improves with earlier detection.

How Often Should You Get Oral Cancer Screenings?

The frequency of screenings will depend on your risk factors and medical history. Generally, dentists advise undergoing screening at least once a year as part of your routine dental examination. But your dentist could recommend more frequent screenings if you have a higher risk of developing oral cancer.

Conclusion

Despite being a dangerous and probably fatal condition, mouth cancer is detectable early with routine tests. You may safeguard your oral and general health by having an oral cancer screening performed during your regular dental checkup. Thus, make sure to attend your upcoming dentist visit. See your dentist to learn more about oral cancer screenings and how they can help you stay healthy.

For more on dental exams, visit Oral Surgical Associates at our Missoula or Hamilton, Montana office. Call (406) 282-8768 to schedule an appointment today.